A MONTCLAIR TREASURE--6219 SWAINLAND This beautiful custom 3156 square foot (per appraiser measurement) home was built in 1995 by a contractor as his family’s personal residence. It is located in one of the East Bay’s most prestigious and sought-after neighborhoods, noted for exclusive individualized residences and wonderful proximity to freeway, BART, and shopping. Charming Montclair village and top-rated Thornhill Elementary School are within walking distance. Lake Temescal, with its walking trails, grassy fields, sandy beach and children’s playground is two blocks away. The premium 6825 square foot site at 6219 Swainland stretches down to the street below and features breathtaking unobstructed views of the surrounding hills, the glistening water of the North Bay, and Mt. Tamalpais. The southwestern exposure fills the house with natural sunlight during the day, and offers spectacular sunsets in the evening. Despite the proximity to the freeway, the sheltered position of the residence shields it from traffic noise. Architect Gary Samonsky designed this custom home with a very functional floor plan that lends itself to carefree living. The covered entry porch opens to an imposing formal entry with tile floors and an inlaid border. The wonderful great room is the heart of the house, with its soaring ceiling, wood flooring, expansive windows, raised hearth fireplace, and built-in bookcases and cabinetry. The spacious dining area also enjoys the gorgeous view through double French doors. The roomy kitchen has extensive granite counters, bird’s eye maple cabinetry, Viking stainless steel gas range and Bosch dishwasher. There is abundant cabinet and counter space, a door to the deck for easy access to barbecue, indirect and under cabinet lighting, as well as recessed lighting. In this bright, open, and spacious setting, collaborative meal preparation is a pleasure. Built-in speakers provide capability for surround sound throughout the public rooms. The expansive deck on this level, with its beautiful unobstructed view, is a lovely spot for sunbathing, al fresco dining, or enjoying before dinner cocktails. The bedroom on the main level makes an ideal guest room or office; it has wood floors and crown molding. The charming tiled bathroom on this level has wainscoting, a pedestal sink, and combination tub/shower. The curved staircase leading to the second floor enjoys a midway landing (note the beveled and leaded window). The three upstairs bedrooms all have interesting ceiling design. Both secondary bedrooms have great closet space, plus roomy “attic style” storage space. The window alcoves in these rooms provide charming detail. The master bedroom suite is a delightful retreat with French doors opening to a private balcony, overhead Palladian window, two additional operable windows, and a huge, well appointed walk-in closet. The sunny bathroom also has a large arched window with plantation shutters, whirlpool tub, and oversized shower with dual showerheads and built-in bench. The lower level of the residence provides great versatility. The large downstairs room can be a family room or playroom. French doors access the spacious lower level deck, which has steps to the sloping back yard. The adjacent “bonus” room could be a media or theatre room, or an au pair bedroom. On this level is a half bathroom, and a spacious laundry room with a window, built-in sink, cabinetry, and ironing board. Level-in interior access to the main living areas of the home from the double car garage is a great boon for homeowners. The garage has an attractive sectional door with electronic opener. Additional features: dual pane all wood windows with true divided lights; security alarm system; designer window treatments including plantation shutters; separate thermostats to individually control temperature levels. The professionally landscaped yard features a front garden, planted for year-around color, and a sloping rear yard, dominated by two magnificent towering redwood trees. Additional redwood trees along the side of the house provide privacy and are lovely to view through the kitchen window. A well-built storage house on the side of the residence could also serve as a child’s playhouse. There are planting beds on this side as well, for flowers or vegetables. In all, this charming home lends itself beautifully to gracious entertaining, both indoors and out, as well as functional day-to-day family living.
